Activist

Definition

Activist is a noun referring to a person who campaigns or takes action to bring about social, political, economic, or environmental change. As an adjective, it describes actions or behaviors characterized by direct and vigorous advocacy for a cause.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American and British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæktɪvɪst/
• Respelling: AK-tuh-vist

Etymology

The word "activist" originates from the Latin "activus," meaning "active." The modern sense of the term, relating to someone who takes direct action to support a cause, developed in the early 20th century. It evolved from the word "active" with the suffix "-ist," denoting a person who advocates or supports a cause.

Derivatives

• Activism (noun)
• Activate (verb)
• Activistic (adjective)
• Pro-activist (noun/adjective)
• Reactivist (noun)

Synonyms

• Campaigner
• Advocate
• Reformer

Antonyms

• Conservative
• Neutral
• Nonparticipant

Usage

The noun "activist" is commonly used to describe individuals who actively promote or campaign for social, environmental, or political causes. For example, "She is an activist for human rights." As an adjective, it describes actions, strategies, or movements associated with advocacy, as in "The activist approach focuses on direct action and reform."

Related Terms

• Protester: A person who publicly demonstrates objection to a policy or action.
• Advocate: A person who supports or recommends a cause or policy.
• Campaign: Organized activities to achieve a particular goal, often in a political or social context.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who takes direct action in support of a cause: Refers to individuals involved in campaigns or actions aimed at effecting change.
  • Example: "The environmental activist organized a rally for clean energy."

Adjective

• Relating to or characterized by vigorous advocacy for a cause: Describes actions or behaviors associated with campaigning or reform.
  • Example: "They employed an activist strategy to raise awareness."